NT gives the go-ahead for gas fracking

Santos and Origin Energy have advised that they will resume gas exploration in the Northern Territory after Chief Minister Michael Gunner agreed to scrap a ban on hydraulic fracturing. However, fracking will still be prohibited within 49 per cent of the Northern Territory, while individuals and groups will be able to oppose any applications for exploration or production licences. A government-commissioned inquiry recently concluded that the environmental risks of fracking can be mitigated.